Chapter 391

"An explanation is necessary."

Nathaniel's piercing gaze locked onto Evelyn, completely ignoring Cassandra's simpering expression. His large hand reached out, effortlessly taking the suitcase from Evelyn and passing it to Theodore standing nearby.

"What's all this drama about?" His deep voice held an edge as he wrapped his arms possessively around Evelyn's waist, pulling her flush against him as if afraid she might actually leave.

Evelyn squirmed slightly at the public display of affection, pressing against his chest in a futile attempt to create distance. When that failed, she sighed dramatically before launching into her explanation.

"It began when you went to fetch your bride from the Blackwoods. Protocol dictated you use the front entrance, but no—you snuck in through the back and whisked me away instead! Now that the truth's out and they've realized you picked the wrong woman that day, Cassandra's demanding I surrender my position as Mrs. Grayson. Naturally, my only option was to pack up and leave!"

Cassandra scowled at Evelyn's blunt retelling, shooting her a venomous glare before sweetly interjecting, "My sister summarizes it rather crudely. The fact remains—I was your intended bride. This entire situation stems from my sister's childish mischief and her tendency to take what isn't hers!"

She adjusted her posture, adopting what she believed was a dignified expression. "I came today out of concern for our family's reputation. Someone raised in the countryside with no understanding of high society would only embarrass the Grayson name. Surely you agree it's best we correct this mistake and assume our proper places?"

Nathaniel's eyes narrowed dangerously as he finally comprehended why the Blackwoods had appeared unannounced that day. All pretense of politeness evaporated from his expression.

Instead of addressing Cassandra, he looked down at the woman in his arms, his voice laced with exasperation. "Why are you causing trouble when they're clearly the ones stirring the pot?"

Evelyn pouted. "I'm not causing trouble! You married the wrong woman! She's the one who waited for you in a wedding dress that day!"

"Enough," Nathaniel growled, though his anger seemed tempered when directed at Evelyn. His tone shifted to something resembling a patient teacher instructing a wayward student—firm yet careful not to frighten.

Evelyn's frown deepened, clearly displeased with his reaction.

Ignoring the brewing family drama, Nathaniel surprised everyone by asking softly, "What did you eat today?" The sudden appearance of uninvited guests had made him concerned about whether she'd had proper meals.

"A ham sandwich for breakfast," Evelyn answered truthfully. "Pasta at noon. Haven't had dinner yet." After her morning encounter with the Blackwoods, she'd remained upstairs where Theodore had discreetly delivered her meals.

Nathaniel's shoulders relaxed slightly at this confirmation. "Good. What would you like for dinner then?"

Cassandra's nails dug into her palms as she watched Nathaniel shower Evelyn with attention that should have been hers. Unable to contain herself any longer, she interjected sharply, "Mr. Grayson, perhaps it's best Evelyn leaves now while it's still daylight. If she stays for dinner, it'll be too late for her to travel safely with all her luggage."

Nathaniel's glacial stare finally turned to Cassandra. "If she leaves, you'll be escorted out as well."

Cassandra recoiled as if struck. "W-why? You were attracted to me once before, Mr. Grayson! Don't let Evelyn deceive you! She might play the innocent, but she's the most cunning schemer of all!"

Victoria chimed in anxiously, "My dear son-in-law, you must listen to your mother-in-law! There's been a terrible mistake—you were meant to marry Cassandra, not Evelyn!"

Gregory adopted his most authoritative tone. "Listen to me, son-in-law! My eldest daughter Cassandra was your intended bride. You mistakenly chose Evelyn on the wedding day! This is a misunderstanding we must rectify immediately!"